35
Some of those standing nearby heard Jesus cry out. They said, "Listen! He's calling for Elijah."
36
One of them ran and filled a sponge with wine vinegar. He put it on a stick. He offered it to Jesus to drink. "Leave him alone," he said. "Let's see if Elijah comes to take him down."
37
With a loud cry, Jesus took his last breath.
38
The temple curtain was torn in two from top to bottom.
39
A Roman commander was standing there in front of Jesus. He heard his cry and saw how Jesus died. Then he said, "This man was surely the Son of God!"
40
Not very far away, some women were watching. Mary Magdalene was among them. Mary, the mother of the younger James and of Joses, was also there. So was Salome.
41
In Galilee those women had followed Jesus. They had taken care of his needs. Many other women were also there. They had come up with him to Jerusalem.
Jesus Is Buried
42 It was the day before the Sabbath. That day was called Preparation Day. As evening approached,
43
Joseph went boldly to Pilate and asked for Jesus' body. Joseph was from the town of Arimathea. He was a leading member of the Jewish Council. He was waiting for God's kingdom.
44
Pilate was surprised to hear that Jesus was already dead. So he called for the Roman commander. He asked him if Jesus had already died.
45
The commander said it was true. So Pilate gave the body to Joseph.